Health Minister meets U.S. Ambassador to discuss health challenges amid foreign aid cuts

Ghana’s newly appointed Minister of Health Kwabena Mintah Akando met with U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, in Accra to discuss pressing health issues and the potential impact of recent U.S. foreign aid cuts on Ghana’s healthcare system.

The high-level meeting, held at the Ministry of Health, focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in health and mitigating the possible effects of the U.S. government’s decision to cut foreign aid, a move that could affect funding for key health initiatives in Ghana.

During the meeting, the Minister highlighted Ghana’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery, including plans to expand maternal and child health services, strengthen the fight against infectious diseases, and enhance emergency medical response systems. He acknowledged the significant contributions of U.S. aid to Ghana’s health sector over the years, particularly in areas such as malaria prevention, maternal healthcare, and HIV/AIDS programs.

The meeting also addressed concerns about the recent decision by the U.S. government to reduce foreign aid spending, a move that has sparked global reactions. The cuts, part of broader policy shifts, have raised fears about their impact on developing nations that rely on U.S. support for critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

The Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akando expressed concerns that a reduction in funding could disrupt ongoing health projects, including those aimed at combating infectious diseases. He emphasized the need for alternative funding sources and strategic partnerships to ensure that essential healthcare programs continue without interruption.

To address potential shortfalls, both parties agreed to explore innovative financing models, including increased public-private partnerships. The Minister also assured Ghanaians that the government remains committed to ensuring that healthcare services are not compromised despite the challenges posed by foreign aid cuts.

Ambassador Palmer who congratulated the minister over his assumption of office, on the other hand reaffirmed the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s health sector despite the foreign aid cuts.

The meeting underscored the strong relationship between Ghana and the U.S. in the health sector and reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to work together in tackling emerging health challenges.

As the government navigates the impact of these policy changes, health officials are expected to hold further engagements with key stakeholders to secure sustainable funding solutions for Ghana’s healthcare system.

Last minute

In another development, he has urged health professionals in Ghana to remain calm following the government’s decision to revoke the appointments of individuals recruited into public service after December 7, 2024.

He emphasized that the decision, which has sparked concern among healthcare workers, pertains only to new appointments made beyond this date.

To provide clarity on the matter, Minister Akandoh reassured health professionals that anyone recruited before the December 31, 2024 deadline—an agreement established after clearance from the Ministry of Finance—will not be impacted by the revocation.

He further emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that those already in the system are not adversely affected by these changes.

Akandoh acknowledged the concerns raised by health workers and urged them to understand that the government’s actions are aimed at streamlining public service appointments to ensure the long-term sustainability and efficiency of the sector.

The health minister also expressed gratitude for the dedication of health professionals across the country, recognising their crucial role in the ongoing development of Ghana’s healthcare system.

“The Ministry of Finance issued clearance for recruitment of health professionals, for which, the expiry date was December 31, 2024. So, it is in the interest of anybody who may be recruited beyond that point to be suspended. Because if we recruit you beyond that point, we cannot pay you. So, we are not saying that the recruitments that were done within the period are not affected,” he stated.

“We have also heard that people are trying to recruit persons into the Ministry of Health. We are not recruiting and we have not opened portals for recruitment.”